Uganda qualifies for the U17 World Cup, a first in its history

The U17 national team of Uganda has written a new chapter in its history by securing qualification for the 2025 U17 World Cup, scheduled to be held in Qatar from November 3 to 27. This is a first in their history, after only two participations in the U17 Africa Cup of Nations.

A historic first qualification

Having been eliminated in the quarter-finals of the 2025 U17 Africa Cup of Nations, Uganda and Gambia faced off on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at the El Abdi Stadium with the stakes high: a place in the 2025 U17 World Cup. The Gambians started the duel well, opening the scoring in the very first minute of play thanks to Ahmed Njundu Kanyi.

Unfortunately, the rest of the match favored the opponent. James Bogere equalized (13') and then scored again (33') quickly in the first half to secure victory for Uganda.

Thus, Uganda clinched the coveted ticket to participate in the 2025 U17 World Cup in Qatar this November. A historic and symbolic qualification for the Young Uganda Cranes, who have never before participated in the tournament. Even more impressive, the Ugandans achieved this feat in only their second appearance in the U17 Africa Cup of Nations, while many national teams have long been striving for this honor.

Lydiane N'Po |

Editorfr, en

Sports journalist specializing in African football, covering football news, exclusive stories and digital content for passionate fans of the game.